303. True Intimacy in Marriage (with Joanna and Matthew Raabsmith)

Listen in this week as I am joined by not just one guest but two - Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith, authors of the new book Building True Intimacy: Creating a Connection That Stands the Test of Time, a project which they themselves refer to as a labor of love. Together, Joanna and Matthew openly share their journey of rebuilding their marriage after Matthew revealed his struggles with sexual addiction and pornography. They go beyond just surviving to thriving, offering insights into how to create a thriving connection that doesn’t just survive the bumps but actually grows stronger through them. Their approach isn’t about perfecting your partner or expecting them to "fix" your emotional triggers but rather about learning how to heal and grow together.Listen in as we talk about the importance of small daily moments and how a simple interaction, like how we deal with frustration or small disagreements, can either draw us closer or create distance. They, for example, share some powerful insights into their own struggles with emotional dysregulation and how it often leads to disconnection, but it isn't just about avoiding the pitfalls. It’s also about learning how to show up as emotionally healthy individuals and what it takes to keep the relationship itself thriving!Hear how Joanna and Matthew learned to handle some tough topics like finances and how taking a step back to understand each other’s emotional states can truly transform conversations. We also discuss their “animacy pyramid,” a framework which they developed to conceptualize what makes a truly thriving relationship.Whether you’re struggling with small daily challenges or looking for ways to deepen your emotional connection, this episode is packed with real wisdom that can help shift the way you approach love, intimacy, and your partnership. If you're in a relationship or thinking about what it takes to make love last, you will not want to miss this conversation, and be sure to grab a copy of their book!In This Episode[0:35] - This episode’s guests are authors of the book Building True Intimacy, Matthew and Joanna Raabsmith![1:43] - After overcoming betrayal and addiction, Matthew and Joanna's book helps guide couples toward thriving relationships.[4:14] - Maintaining emotional regulation leads to lasting connection, regardless of the issue or situation.[7:57] - Hear how Matthew learned that projecting insecurity onto others can affect the health of relationships.[10:23] - Emotional dependency in relationships can cause disconnection and halt personal growth.[12:42] - I have realized that self-worth should come from within, not from external validation.[15:45] - Joanna believes that healthy compromise means finding mutually beneficial solutions, not taking turns losing.[18:58] - To build a strong relationship, it's important to address underlying fears prior to discussing practical issues.[22:35] - Matthew adds that finding common ground in core values helps couples overcome differences.[24:11] - Joanna argues that taking a step back from pain helps you recognize that your partner does still care.[27:14] - Building a thriving relationship requires honesty, safety, trust, vulnerability, and persistent effort.[30:59] - Ultimately, small, daily choices significantly shape the resilience of a marriage.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksBuilding True Intimacy: Creating a Connection That Stands the Test of Time by Joanna Raabsmith & Matthew RaabsmithSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am so excited to be joined this week by Whitney Newby for an episode that is perfectly timed to be released before Mother’s Day! Whitney is the author of the book Lift Your Eyes: Daily Invitations to Behold Christ in Motherhood, and I have long admired her heart for motherhood. Her new book brims with the kind of grounded and graceful encouragement that so many of us desperately need when we are in the thick of it - tired, anxious, stretched thin, or even just quietly wondering if we’re doing anything right.We talk about what it means to see motherhood not as a detour from a more “important” purpose but as the exact work that we have been called to in this season. Whitney shares how her early postpartum challenges taught her dependence on God in a whole new way and how even something as simple as changing her response from “What?” to “Yes, love” transformed the atmosphere of her home. These are all truly just lived experiences, real shifts that she has made in the messiness of everyday life, and it’s these small choices that she says have shaped her most profoundly.Tune in to hear Whitney and I talk about anxiety, identity, and the constant pressure to “fill our cups.” Whitney’s stories and insights definitely are not sugar-coated, but they are soaked in truth and gentleness, so if you are in a season where the needs feel never-ending, your patience is paper-thin, and/or you're wondering how you’re supposed to keep going, this episode is for you, and definitely be sure to grab a copy of Lift Your Eyes!In This Episode[0:35] - This episode’s guest is the author of the book Lift Your Eyes, Whitney Newby![2:12] - Hear how motherhood has grown Whitney's faith, teaching her to trust God more than her own control.[5:50] - Whitney learned as a nurse that saying “I have time” builds deep connections with both patients and children when busy.[7:52] - Whitney feels that even being present with her kids for ten minutes can create lasting memories.[10:43] - True strength in motherhood doesn't come from cultural comforts or self-reliance.[12:38] - Praying with Jesse in weakness has revealed God's power to multiply emotional scarcity.[14:48] - Hear how Changing a snappy “What?” to a gentler “Yes, love?” has transformed Whitney's home atmosphere.[17:35] - Whitney believes that moms shape their homes' emotional climates.[20:33] - I really like the title of Whitney's book and cherish the image of lifting our eyes to God when experiencing overwhelming daily challenges.[21:15] - Whitney reveals that, in chaotic seasons, she connects with God through audio Bibles and quick “flare prayers.”[24:36] - We discover how Whitney added minimal watercolor art to her book to visually reflect calm and spiritual beauty.[26:01] - Hear about Whitney’s business Brighter Day Press.[28:39] - I value Whitney’s generosity, humor, and authenticity, calling her book a peaceful gift for mothers that listeners should read!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBrighter Day PressBooksLift Your Eyes: Daily Invitations to Behold Christ in Motherhood by Whitney NewbySocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

If, like me, you have ever told yourself, “Tonight, I will put my phone away by 8 p.m.,” only to find yourself two hours later mindlessly scrolling through TikTok, then you will probably feel seen in this episode, and I am sharing something that has made a huge difference for both Jesse and me: the Opal app.This app has really helped me set real boundaries with my phone… and actually stick to them. Jesse and I talk about how Opal helped me finally break a pattern I didn’t even realize had such a grip on my evenings and how reclaiming that time has changed way more than I even expected! We’re talking about better sleep, better connection with each other, a tidier house, and a return to things I actually love, like reading fiction instead of just perusing strangers’ Instagram posts!I also get honest about the struggles that I had at first (because setting boundaries with your phone sounds simple, but if it were that easy, we'd all be doing it already)! I share what worked, what surprised me, and why the goal isn’t perfection but awareness and choice, so if you are feeling like your evenings (or your whole day) keep slipping away one scroll at a time, this might give you some ideas!In This Episode[0:35] - Despite my plan to use my phone only as a landline after 8 p.m., I found that I lacked that willpower and needed additional help.[3:33] - I ended up downloading the Opal app to curb late-night scrolling.[6:17] - I explain that I set Opal to block social media apps nightly without any ability to override it.[8:56] - After some trial and error, I managed to customize Opal’s settings to avoid emergencies but still stay disciplined.[10:28] - Jesse notes that he has become more present and attentive at night after installing the Opal app.[11:12] - Hear how I realized that I could meet my work goals while limiting app use to three hours.[12:27] - Mindfully limiting phone use helped Jesse break habits of mindless scrolling.[13:20] - Choosing to read fiction at night instead of scrolling has revived so much joy and fulfillment for me.[14:38] - Without nighttime phone distractions, I also now get better sleep and feel more productive each day.[17:09] - I explain how shutting down apps early has improved our home organization, marriage, and overall sense of presence.[19:54] - Seeing how much of my lifetime I'd waste on my phone really gave me a huge wake-up call!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineOpal AppBooksLittle House on the Prairie (book series) by Laura Ingalls WilderThe Frozen River by Ariel LawhonSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Welcome to the 300th episode of The Crystal Paine Show! Joining me this week is Mary Marantz, author of several books including her newest, Underestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward Anyway. This conversation is raw, honest, and deeply personal one, and in Underestimated, Mary explores how to stop playing small and move past the fear that holds us back, a message that resonated so much with me as I read the book.We talk about how Mary's childhood in a rundown trailer in rural West Virginia shaped her journey, including how she overcame immense insecurity and the fear of failure, only to find herself still grappling with feelings of inadequacy after achieving what seemed like the pinnacle of success. You’ll hear about her struggles with perfectionism, how she used it as a way to prove herself, and how she’s learning to let go of that.Mary’s openness about her own fears, especially about being unlovable after succeeding, is a reminder how easy it is to let fear's voice be so loud that it cripples us from taking action. And then we miss out on so many gifts and blessings and the fulfillment and strength that comes from not letting fear win.This episode of the show is a beautiful reminder to let go of the armor that we often wear and start showing up authentically, trusting that our worth isn’t defined by how small we started or how much we have accomplished. Listen in for an empowering conversation about stepping into who we are meant to be, even when it feels scary, and be sure to grab a copy of Mary's new book!In This Episode[0:35] - I felt deeply connected to Mary's introduction to her new book.[1:56] - Mary believes that being overlooked fosters empathy, shaping us into people who truly see others.[5:45] - Mary grew up in poverty and still wrestles with defining herself beyond the underdog narrative.[8:27] - Purpose outweighs proving others wrong.[9:59] - Fearing failure, Mary nearly skipped applying to Yale until a friend intervened and believed in her.[12:06] - Trying to mask insecurity with achievements.[15:02] - Mary used perfectionism as an armor, trying to prove her worth after her mother's abandonment.[18:35] - In striving to need no one, Mary ended up becoming isolated and heartbroken by her walls.[20:40] - Fear of failure can come from the pressure to always be the one who comes through.[23:07] - Mary asserts that those who lack true passion aren't afraid, but creatives fear whether their work will matter.[25:13] - Naming fear’s predictable patterns weakens its power![28:03] - I explain how facing fear in tough situations builds courage, preparing us for challenges in the future.[30:24] - As is scientifically supported, the brain predicts outcomes based on past experiences, but doing difficult things can reshape this.[33:17] - I express admiration for Mary’s gift for words in her book.[36:08] - Mary explains the five achiever types and invites listeners to take her free quiz online![39:28] - I applaud Mary’s perseverance and encourage others to read her work!Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineMary MarantzAchieverQuiz.comNametheFear.comMary Marantz on Instagram (@marymarantz)BooksDirt: Growing Strong Roots in What Makes the Broken Beautiful by Mary MarantzSlow Growth Equals Strong Roots: Finding Grace, Freedom, and Purpose in an Overachieving World by Mary MarantzUnderestimated: The Surprisingly Simple Shift to Quit Playing Small, Name the Fear, and Move Forward Anyway by Mary MarantzSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jesse and I are back in the studio this week together to talk all about raising financially confident teens, I have personally seen firsthand how a few key mindset shifts can totally change the game, not just for them but for the entire family dynamicIn this episode, we are unpacking five powerful money mindsets that can shape your teen’s relationship with money in ways that last far beyond high school! These aren’t just fluffy theories or one-size-fits-all strategies. We’re talking about practical shifts - some that may even challenge how you think about money!Tune in as I get into why a $20 hoodie "costs" more than $20 (and how that concept can seriously shift your teen’s thinking), why giving your kid everything might actually rob them of future success, and how the most valuable lessons often come from small mistakes. We also take a look at why compound interest isn’t just a boring math concept but one of the most exciting opportunities your teen can tap into if they understand it early enough.Jesse and I explore how creativity and contentment can become your teen’s financial superpowers and how you can help them develop those strengths without a single lecture. I’m also sharing a brand-new resource called The One Hour Budget for Teens, along with a freebie packed with 15 essential financial skills every teen should know, so if you have ever wondered how to raise a teen who is smart with money and not just good at spending it, then this episode is definitely for you!In This Episode[0:35] - Jesse and I are discussing talking to kids early about money, building lasting habits.[3:25] - Teaching kids to earn purchases shows them that money equals effort and thoughtful decisions.[5:33] - Jesse argues that teens shouldn't be taught to equate money solely with hours worked.[6:37] - It's important to show kids the value of long-term gains by discussing investments and risk vs. reward.[9:06] - I add that living below your means sets teens up for financial independence and effective budgeting.[12:41] - Jesse points out that failures are learning opportunities that often teach us more than successes do.[13:13] - I encourage allowing kids to make financial mistakes because they’ll gain lasting wisdom from the experience.[16:04] - I warn about online scams and introduce a fun, teen-friendly budgeting guide.[19:07] - Initiate financial talks with teens via shared activities and honest but non-judgmental conversations.[22:53] - I argue that excuses only delay progress, so start managing what you have now, even if it’s only $30.[25:37] - Contentment now is key to lasting financial peace and success.[28:32] - Removing screen time and ads has helped our son become more motivated to earn.[30:11] - I have realized that buying more can’t fix deeper issues that only contentment can address.[33:42] - Go to my store to download The One-Hour Budget for Teens, using the code TEENS at checkout!Links & ResourcesCrystal Paine15 Financial Skills for Teens FreebieThe One-Hour Budget for Teens (Use code TEENS at checkout!)Social MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I am so excited to be joined this week by Rebecca George, author of the book You’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World. Listen in as Rebecca and I discuss the struggles that so many of us face when we feel like life is passing us by, talking about the pressures of measuring up to timelines - whether they be about marriage, career, or friendships - and how these expectations can often lead us to doubt ourselves and God's plan for us.Rebecca reflects on her personal journey of learning to embrace the waiting seasons of life, and we chat about the powerful truths in her book, especially how longing – whether it be relational or vocational - can really shape us if we choose to trust God in the process.She also opens up about the importance of community, even when it feels like everyone else has it figured out and you don't. We talk about the beauty of showing up for others, even in simple, everyday ways, and how those small acts of service can deeply connect us.If you have ever felt like you are behind or have wondered why your timeline doesn’t match up with others, then this conversation is definitely for you! Rebecca’s honesty and her insight are sure to help you shift your perspective on waiting, community, and trusting God’s timing. Remember – you're not too late, and be sure to pick up a copy of Rebecca’s book!In This Episode[0:35] - I introduce the feeling of being behind in life and welcome Rebecca George, author of You’re Not Too Late, to the show![1:29] - Rebecca shares how longing for the next season often distracts us from addressing inner emotions.[4:36] - Rebecca feels that longings in life require turning to Christ for hope during struggles.[7:05] - Rebecca stresses the importance of community to prevent loneliness and support growth.[9:42] - Asking for help builds courage, and Rebecca shares a story of having received unexpected support.[11:28] - I express gratitude for friends who show up without asking, offering help without expecting anything in return.[13:06] - Stepping out in faith to help others can lead to blessings and growth.[16:54] - I reflect on learning the difference between hospitality and entertainment, now embracing get-togethers that aren't necessarily “perfect.”[18:23] - A perfectly curated home doesn’t reflect Rebecca's everyday life; she instead values hospitality.[20:18] - Rebecca shares how personal longings made celebrating others’ milestones difficult.[22:27] - Rebecca highlights the importance of bringing emotions to God and learning from the process.[25:08] - Hear Rebecca reflect on the challenges and growth in her marriage while also managing external pressures.[28:13] - I share how having a prepared response helped me stay confident despite others' questions.[31:17] - Rebecca encourages women of all ages to trust God and find hope in life’s struggles.[34:34] - I discuss holding space for both longing and living, choosing joy despite difficult situations.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineFunction HealthInsideTrackerBooksYou’re Not Too Late: Trusting God’s Timing in a Hurry-Up World by Rebecca GeorgeHabits of the Household: Practicing the Story of God in Everyday Family Rhythms by Justin Whitmel EarleySocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Dalton-Smith on Instagram (@drdaltonsmith)Our Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

This week, Jesse and I dive into an much-requested topic - my recent experience with getting blood tests done through Function Health.In this episode, we compare my experience with Function with my experience with InsideTracker. I loved that Function Health didn’t just give me numbers; it actually provided detailed, personalized recommendations, including the top foods and supplements which I should focus on. I also really appreciated the way that they communicated, reminding me of important prep steps like fasting and exercise restrictions before doing my tests.One of the most interesting parts is definitely the internal age assessment. (Let’s just say that the results made my day!) Beyond that, though, I found myself very impressed by how comprehensive the testing was - two rounds of bloodwork, deeper insights into key health markers, and clear explanations of what my results actually meant (including which areas needed attention ASAP)!Jesse even found a way to integrate my Function Health results into my InsideTracker app, which gave me a cool side-by-side comparison of my health trends over time.If you have ever considered a blood testing service (or if you have tried one before and weren’t too sure if it was worth it), then this episode will give you an inside look at my experience. As always, I would really love to hear from you! Have you tried Function Health, InsideTracker, or something similar? Send me an email at [email protected], and let’s compare notes!In This Episode[0:35] - I discuss my experience with Function Health's blood testing and am comparing it to InsideTracker.[2:04] - High school baseball games differ from middle school -- much longer and apparently with extra innings![4:24] - Managing kids at baseball games is challenging, but this year feels easier than last.[7:57] - Kathrynne and I had a relaxing, bonding trip to Isle of Palms over spring break.[10:28] - Function Health provided me with extensive health testing, offering a lot of add-on options.[13:04] - I found the $499 Function test affordable, detailed, and easily scheduled via local labs.[16:15] - The two rounds of testing help ensure accuracy by accounting for dietary and lifestyle factors.[18:22] - Function Health provides ongoing health tracking with personalized recommendations.[20:06] - Function Health's communication and reminders were better than InsideTracker's, keeping me well-prepared.[22:17] - The final results included doctor-reviewed insights, prioritized health concerns, and custom dietary recommendations.[24:51] - I was somewhat surprised that they so highly recommended magnesium -- but it makes sense![27:16] - I usually avoid using apps but appreciate Function Health’s communication despite being a newer company.[30:19] - I find it encouraging that I already limit certain foods, and Jesse and I discuss dietary recommendations.[33:44] - Function Health testing has grown more popular, although InsideTracker offers a more structured membership.[36:08] - I explain why I prefer Function Health over InsideTracker.[38:06] - I question how internal age results are determined, as I note discrepancies in different tests.[39:32] - Jesse plans to take the test next, and I encourage listeners to prioritize their health.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineFunction HealthInsideTrackerSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith's book Sacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity is a book that has deeply impacted my life. If you've followed me online for awhile, you've probably heard me talk about it as I'm often thinking about it and recommending it to others. So I was so excited when I got to interview Dr. Saundra and talk about Sacred Rest plus her new book, Being Fully Known: The Joyful Satisfaction of Beholding, Becoming, and Belonging.Sacred Rest helped me understand that rest is not just about sleep but is also a necessary balance of seven distinct types of rest, each meeting different needs in our lives. Whether it's social, sensory, or emotional rest, her insights truly shifted how I think about and prioritize rest.Listen in as she opens up about the vulnerability that shaped both books - how Sacred Rest challenged her to be honest about her struggles and how her new book represents the freedom that she has found from embracing her true self, without the pressure to be perfect.She shares the powerful idea of being “fully known,” which isn’t just about rest but about getting rid of the labels and fears that keep us from stepping into our true purpose. We also discuss her Abide-Act framework, a practical way to live with intention, whether you are pursuing personal growth and/or professional goals.As we explore Dr. Saundra’s personal story of transitioning from a successful medical career to embracing this new calling, you'll be inspired to live authentically and find true rest despite the many demands of life.In This Episode[00:36] - I have Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith, author of Sacred Rest and Being Fully Known, in the studio today![01:36] - Dr. Dalton-Smith explains that rest comes in seven types, not just sleeping or relaxing.[02:47] - To help identify their rest deficit, people can take her quiz at restquiz.com.[03:26] - While writing Sacred Rest, Saundra overcame the fear of perfection and embraced authenticity.[05:43] - After experiencing burnout, Dr. Dalton-Smith transitioned from being a doctor to embracing new opportunities.[08:55] - We learn that, when facing intimidating opportunities, Dr. Dalton-Smith looks to God for guidance and strength.[10:58] - Dr. Dalton-Smith created the Abide-Act framework to prevent burnout and stay aligned with goals.[13:46] - She sets aside evening time to reflect, ensuring her projects align with her values and needs.[16:11] - We learn that Dr. Dalton-Smith does plan but balances planning with the freedom of being flexible.[18:51] - The Abide-Act periods often focus on well-being, such as exercising or overcoming comparison-itis.[24:37] - Dr. Dalton Smith now understands that healing involves embracing past pain, fears, and insecurities.[27:10] - After transitioning, Saundra embraced freedom, being authentic, and contributing to the bigger picture.[30:08] - Stepping into the unknown requires trusting God's faithfulness, empowering others through your actions.[31:20] - Beholding God reveals personal growth opportunities, like balancing introversion with qualities of both a lamb and lion.[34:34] - The Hebrew word "Hineni" means saying "yes" to God before knowing the question, requiring trust.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSaundra’s Free Rest QuizBooksSacred Rest: Recover Your Life, Renew Your Energy, Restore Your Sanity by Saundra Dalton-SmithBeing Fully Known: The Joyful Satisfaction of Beholding, Becoming, and Belonging by Saundra Dalton-SmithSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Dalton-Smith on Instagram (@drdaltonsmith)Our Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Jesse is back in the studio with me this week as we share some newsy updates from recently. Tune in as I share some highlights from my recent solo trip to Disney World, where I joined my business coach Alli Worthington for a getaway. I had initially resisted the idea of wearing Disney ears, but the trip turned out to be a truly profound experience for me, both personally and professionally. While there, I found myself reconnecting with my inner child and reflecting on the awe and wonder that I had been missing.I discuss how Alli's approach to life really inspired me deeply and reminded me of the importance of seeing the world with fresh eyes. The trip also gave me a wonderful opportunity to pour into other women and receive coaching that shifted my mindset and leadership in my business!We also share an update about Silas, who had the opportunity to visit Grand Canyon University during a service trip. It was amazing to see how impressed he was by his experience there, sparking new excitement for his eventual college journey!Afterward, Kathrynne and I took a spring break trip to Charleston, South Carolina, and I couldn’t have been more grateful when she chose to forgo a trip with friends to spend that precious time with me! Our time in Charleston was all about strengthening our bond and creating memories, and it was truly such a gift!We wrap up by reflecting on how much our kids have grown, especially in their character and maturity. These recent trips have reminded me how important it is to invest in relationships and how meaningful those moments can be, and I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did sharing it with you!In This Episode[00:35] - I am sharing my unexpected solo trip to Disney, a place that I never had strong connections to.[02:15] - After praying for a mentor, I discuss how I found Alli Worthington as a coach.[05:02] - Investing in coaching with Alli has profoundly impacted my life and business.[07:11] - Hear how I initially hesitated about going to Disney World but ended up gaining unexpected growth.[10:56] - I struggled with the idea of wearing Disney ears but eventually embraced the idea.[12:54] - I ended up having a lot of fun wearing the ears and look forward to wearing them again.[15:41] - Hear how I learned the value of play, being present, and making deep connections during the trip.[19:13] - I ultimately feel grateful for the deep conversations and connections I had during the client getaway.[21:27] - Silas participated in a service trip to Arizona, helping create pallets for refugee families.[23:27] - Silas had Grand Canyon University on his college list![25:56] - Jesse had a successful spring training trip with Silas, including attending baseball games in Phoenix.[28:40] - I reflect on how much the kids struggled with Jesse's absence.[31:28] - I recall a chaotic time with the kids, including Micah’s nursemaid's elbow injury.[34:06] - I successfully followed a YouTube tutorial to help Micah raise his arm.​​[37:13] - I feel encouraged by our older kids' growth, and I'm excited about a spring break trip with Kathrynne.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

I have been so excited for this episode because I had the pleasure of sitting down with Trillia Newbell, author of the book Celebrating Around the Table: Learning the Stories of Black Christians Through Readings, Fellowships, Food, and Faith! When we talk about celebrating culture within the church, what does that actually look like in our homes, around our tables, and in our conversations with our kids? You have perhaps considered this before, but even if you haven't, then you are not going to want to miss this episode because Trillia offers a wealth of insight and experience as she talks about the book.Celebrating Around the Table is a book which invites families to explore Black history through devotionals, recipes, and meaningful discussions, but it definitely is not just a book about the past; it is also about how Christians can embrace and celebrate the beautiful diversity interwoven into the church.Tune in as Trillia shares how her own interracial family has learned to cherish both their Black heritage and their shared faith, using Black History Month as a time to reflect, learn, and celebrate. She and I also talk about the church’s role in addressing racism, not with vague calls for unity but with actual, actionable conversations about sin, repentance, and reconciliation.Via the powerful stories throughout her book, such as those of Elizabeth Freeman who fought for her freedom in court and Ruby Bridges who faced truly unimaginable challenges as a child, Trillia reminds us how faith, courage, and perseverance have shaped history and why these stories absolutely still matter today!Again, this is an incredibly rich conversation that you are not going to want to miss, whether you are looking for ways to honor Black history with your family or wondering how to have honest, gospel-centered conversations about race, this episode is sure to enlighten, encourage, and even challenge you!In This Episode[0:35] - I am so excited to welcome Trillia Newbell, author of Celebrating Around the Table, to the show![1:38] - Trillia cherishes her interracial family, enjoys parenting teens, and supports their artistic ambitions.[4:40] - Trillia's biracial children embrace both cultures, and she is grateful for a family life free of racism.[8:01] - Trillia's family celebrates Black History Month by learning about influential Black historical figures.[10:15] - Elizabeth Freeman won her freedom in court after realizing her equality via the Declaration.[11:41] - Ruby Bridges, at only six years old, desegregated schools, showing faith, courage, and forgiveness despite hatred.[14:56] - Cooking and discussing cultural recipes can lead to meaningful conversations about history, faith, and community.[17:17] - Understanding others’ histories and experiences can help break barriers.[19:38] - Trillia states that racism persists because of sin, causing pain and requiring ongoing resistance until Christ's return.[23:09] - The church must preach repentance, confront sin, and promote reconciliation that goes beyond political debates.[25:23] - Trillia believes that parents need to teach children early to appreciate diversity.[27:19] - I point out how experiencing diverse cultures deepens faith and that family separation causes generational trauma, as seen in slavery.[29:31] - Trillia adds that slavery’s cruelty tore families apart, erased histories, and tried to strip people of their humanity.[31:25] - Celebrating Around the Table highlights forgiveness, hope, and the beauty of human diversity.[33:23] - Trillia closes by expressing that our unity is already won through Jesus, so we should live in that reality now.Links & ResourcesCrystal PaineBooksCelebrating Around the Table: Learning the Stories of Black Christians Through Readings, Fellowships, Food, and Faith by Trillia J. NewbellSocial MediaCrystal Paine on Instagram (@moneysavingmom)Crystal Paine on Instagram (@crystaliscleaning)Crystal Paine on LinkedInCrystal Paine on TwitterCrystal Paine on GoodreadsMoney Saving MomMoney Saving Mom on FacebookMoney Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook [email protected] Sponsors:* Check out Armoire: https://armoire.style/CRYSTAL* Check out Glorify: https://glorify-app.com/crystal* Check out IXL and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.ixl.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands